Memes and Their Role in the 2019 Romanian Presidential Elections: An Exploratory Analysis

Authors

  • Andreea Stancea National University of Political Studies and Public Administration
  • Iulia Călin National University of Political Studies and Public Administration
  • Cecilia Ciocîrlan Bucharest University of Economic Studies

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21018/rjcpr.2024.2.593

Keywords:

memes, elections, political communication, political humor, disinformation

Abstract

This article explores the influence of memes on political discourse and public opinion during the 2019 Romanian presidential elections. Focusing on memes related to candidates Klaus Iohannis and Viorica Dãncilã, the article highlights the dual role of memes: as entertainment and as tools for framing political narratives in a biased manner. Employing content analysis, the article offers a view over the types of memes that emerged during the 2019 Romanian presidential elections, emphasizing the representation of the two front-runner candidates: Klaus Iohannis and Viorica Dãncilã. Generally, memes of both candidates were negative in tone with Iohannis more likely to be framed in terms of his funny and humorous situations and Dãncilã in terms of her low intellectual qualities. The article calls for further exploration into the strategic use of memes in politics, aiming to grasp their impact on shaping public perceptions and narratives in the upcoming 2024 elections.

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Published

2025-02-02

How to Cite

Stancea, A., Călin, I., & Ciocîrlan, C. (2025). Memes and Their Role in the 2019 Romanian Presidential Elections: An Exploratory Analysis. Romanian Journal of Communication and Public Relations, 26(2), 7–24. https://doi.org/10.21018/rjcpr.2024.2.593

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Section

Articles